India categorically and unequivocally condemned the October 7 terror attacks on Israel, called for an immediate ceasefire in the region, and the unconditional release of all hostages.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri presented India's position on the ongoing conflict during the 17th India-Israel Foreign Office Consultations in New Delhi as both countries underlined the strength of their strategic partnership.
The Israeli side was led by Yaakov Blitshtein, Director General in the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
"Both sides discussed various issues of bilateral interest in depth and reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral endeavours. The two sides also shared views on the prevailing situation in West Asia and the Indo-Pacific," detailed a statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) after the talks.
"Reiterating India's strong and unequivocal condemnation of the October 7 terror attacks on Israel, the Foreign Secretary called for the unconditional and immediate release of all hostages, ceasefire, the need for continued humanitarian assistance, and adherence to international humanitarian law. At the same time, he also shared India's concern at the escalating situation in West Asia and emphasised restraint, dialogue, and diplomacy," it added.
Israel termed the talks as "productive" and said it was grateful for India's friendship during "difficult times."
New Ambassador of Israel to India Reuven Azar tweeted on X: "Satisfied to see common perspectives on challenges and opportunities in both bilateral and regional issues."
The Consultations also touched upon ways to further strengthen cooperation in areas such as technology, agriculture, transportation, connectivity, and many others.
India's policy toward Palestine has long supported a negotiated two-state solution that could eventually lead to a sovereign, independent, and viable State of Palestine in secure and recognized borders, living peacefully alongside Israel.
Meanwhile, New Delhi "strongly condemned the terror attacks on Israel and the loss of civilian lives in the current Israel-Hamas conflict." Restraint, de-escalation, and a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy it also called for:.
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